Ethical Challenges in the Fast Fashion Industry: The Case of Shein
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25097/rep.n41.2025.04Keywords:
Fast fashion, Shein, Consumption, Ethical challengesAbstract
This article investigates the main ethical challenges faced by the fast fashion sector and Shein, given the promotion of unrestrained consumption. It aims to answer the following question: “What are the ethical implications associated with the mass production conduct of fast-fashion brands?” It addresses the gap in the literature corresponding to the analysis of the current market leader, Shein, with an updated study on the ethical challenges of the fast fashion model. It concludes that the international ethical challenges of this industry generate two main consequences: environmental impact and labour exploitation. Thus, reversing the traditional dependency theory scenario, Shein has established itself with great importance in this industry. However, it faces growing concerns about its business conduct, especially in relation to human rights and environmental sustainability.
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